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[Federal Register Volume 77, Number 235 (Thursday, December 6, 2012)]
[Proposed Rules]
[Pages 72778-72780]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Printing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2012-29398]

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DEPARTMENT OF TRANSPORTATION

Federal Aviation Administration

14 CFR Part 39

[Docket No. FAA-2012-0880; Directorate Identifier 2012-CE-004-AD]
RIN 2120-AA64

Airworthiness Directives; Cessna Aircraft Company Airplanes

AGENCY: Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), DOT.

ACTION: Supplemental notice of proposed rulemaking (NPRM); reopening of 
comment period.

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SUMMARY: We are revising an earlier proposed airworthiness directive 
(AD) for certain Cessna Aircraft Company (Cessna) Model 525 airplanes 
equipped with certain part number (P/N) air conditioning (A/C) 
compressor motors. That NPRM proposed to require inspection of the 
number of hours on the A/C compressor hour meter, inspection of the 
logbook, and replacement of the brushes on certain P/N A/C compressor 
motors or deactivation of the A/C system until replacement of the 
brushes and also require reporting of aircraft information related to 
the replacement of the brushes. That NPRM was prompted by reports of 
smoke and/or fire in the tailcone caused by brushes wearing beyond 
their limits on the A/C motor. This action revises that NPRM by 
providing correct steps for deactivation of the A/C compressor motor. 
We are proposing this supplemental NPRM to correct the unsafe condition 
on these products. Since these actions impose an additional burden over 
that proposed in the NPRM, we are reopening the comment period to allow 
the public the chance to comment on these proposed changes.

DATES: We must receive comments on this supplemental NPRM by January 
22, 2013.

ADDRESSES: You may send comments, using the procedures found in 14 CFR 
11.43 and 11.45, by any of the following methods:
     Federal eRulemaking Portal: Go to http://www.regulations.gov. Follow the instructions for submitting comments.
     Fax: 202-493-2251.
     Mail: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590.
     Hand Delivery: U.S. Department of Transportation, Docket 
Operations, M-30, West Building Ground Floor, Room W12-140, 1200 New 
Jersey Avenue SE., Washington, DC 20590, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., 
Monday through Friday, except Federal holidays.

Examining the AD Docket

    You may examine the AD docket on the Internet at http://www.regulations.gov; or in person at the Docket Management Facility 
between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except Federal 
holidays. The AD docket contains this proposed AD, the regulatory 
evaluation, any comments received, and other information. The street 
address for the Docket Office (phone: 800-647-5527) is in the ADDRESSES 
section. Comments will be available in the AD docket shortly after 
receipt.

FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Christine Abraham, Aerospace Engineer, 
Wichita Aircraft Certification Office, FAA, 1801 Airport Road, Room 
100, Wichita, Kansas 67209; phone: (316) 946-4165; fax: (316) 946-4107; 
email: WICHITA-COS@FAA.GOV.

SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:

Comments Invited

    We invite you to send any written relevant data, views, or 
arguments about this proposed AD. Send your comments to an address 
listed under the ADDRESSES section. Include ``Docket No. FAA-2012-0880; 
Directorate Identifier 2012-CE-004-AD'' at the beginning of your 
comments. We specifically invite comments on the overall regulatory, 
economic, environmental, and energy aspects of this proposed AD. We 
will consider all comments received by the closing date and may amend 
this proposed AD because of those comments.
    We will post all comments we receive, without change, to http://www.regulations.gov, including any personal information you provide. We 
will also post a report summarizing each substantive verbal contact we 
receive about this proposed AD.

Discussion

    We issued an NPRM to amend 14 CFR part 39 to include an AD that 
would apply to certain Cessna Airplane Company Model 525 airplanes 
equipped with certain P/N A/C compressor motors. That NPRM published in 
the Federal Register on August 22, 2012 (77 FR 50644). That NPRM 
proposed to require inspection of the number of hours on the A/C 
compressor hour meter, inspection of the logbook, and replacement of 
the brushes on certain P/N A/C compressor motors or deactivation of the 
A/C system until replacement of the brushes and also require reporting 
of aircraft information related to the replacement of the brushes.

Actions Since Previous NPRM Was Issued

    Since we issued the previous NPRM (77 FR 50644, August 22, 2012), 
we identified revised steps for deactivation of the A/C compressor 
motor.

Comments

    We gave the public the opportunity to comment on the previous NPRM 
(77 FR 50644, August 22, 2012). The following presents the comments 
received on the NPRM and the FAA's response to each comment.

Request Task State Current Maintenance Manual Revision or Following 
Revision 23 or Greater

    Timothy Garroutte requested the FAA state current manual revision 
or following revision 23 or greater instead of using a specific 
revision of the maintenance manual. Garroutte reasoned that using an 
exact manual revision number and date in the AD will cause issues in 
the future because the manual will be revised again with a new date. If 
a specific revision is identified in the AD, the airplane mechanic will 
need to call Cessna Aircraft Company or the FAA to figure out what to 
do once the manual gets a revision higher than 23.
    We disagree with the request to state current manual revision or 
following revision 23 or greater. The Airworthiness Directives Manual, 
FAA-

[[Page 72779]]

IR-M-8040.1 C, dated May 17, 2010, (http://rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library/rgOrders.nsf/0/66DDD8E1D2E95DB3862577270062AABD?OpenDocument&Highlight=order8040.1c) 
states in Chapter 7, paragraph 9 (specifically subparagraph (3)) that 
the phrase ``or later FAA-approved revision'' when referring to the 
service information is not allowed. This phrase violates Office of the 
Federal Register policies for approving materials that are incorporated 
by reference. Service information that we incorporate by reference in 
an AD is often revised after we issue the AD. We can approve later 
revisions of service information as an alternative method of 
compliance.
    We did not change the proposed AD action based on these comments.

Request Correct Deactivation Instructions for the A/C

    Cessna requested we include revised procedures for deactivating the 
A/C in the AD.
    Cessna stated that pulling the A/C circuit breaker does not disable 
the A/C compressor motor. The A/C can be deactivated by removal of a 
fuse limiter. Cessna provided specific deactivation instructions to 
include in the AD and requested we incorporate these instructions in 
the proposed AD.
    We agree with Cessna's request because the instructions for 
deactivating the system were not correct in the NPRM (77 FR 50644, 
August 22, 2012).
    We changed the proposed AD action based on these comments.

FAA's Determination

    We are proposing this supplemental NPRM because we evaluated all 
the relevant information and determined the unsafe condition described 
previously is likely to exist or develop in other products of the same 
type design. Certain changes described above expand the scope of the 
original NPRM. As a result, we have determined that it is necessary to 
reopen the comment period to provide additional opportunity for the 
public to comment on this supplemental NPRM.

Proposed Requirements of the Supplemental NPRM

    This supplemental NPRM would require inspection of the number of 
hours on the A/C compressor hour meter, inspection of the logbook, 
replacement of the brushes on certain P/N A/C compressor motors or 
deactivation of the A/C system until replacement of the brushes, and 
reporting of aircraft information related to the replacement of the 
brushes.

Costs of Compliance

    We estimate that this proposed AD affects 408 airplanes of U.S. 
registry.
    We estimate the following costs to comply with this proposed AD:

                                                 Estimated Costs
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                                                                                     Cost per      Cost on U.S.
              Action                    Labor cost             Parts cost             product        operators
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Inspect and replace brushes on     11 work-hours x $85  $252....................          $1,187        $484,296
 the A/C motor.                     per hour = $935.
Return shipment of brushes to the  $15 per return with  Not applicable..........             $30         $12,240
 manufacturer.                      two required
                                    returns.
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Authority for This Rulemaking

    Title 49 of the United States Code specifies the FAA's authority to 
issue rules on aviation safety. Subtitle I, section 106, describes the 
authority of the FAA Administrator. ``Subtitle VII: Aviation Programs'' 
describes in more detail the scope of the Agency's authority.
    We are issuing this rulemaking under the authority described in 
Subtitle VII, Part A, Subpart III, Section 44701: ``General 
requirements.'' Under that section, Congress charges the FAA with 
promoting safe flight of civil aircraft in air commerce by prescribing 
regulations for practices, methods, and procedures the Administrator 
finds necessary for safety in air commerce. This regulation is within 
the scope of that authority because it addresses an unsafe condition 
that is likely to exist or develop on products identified in this 
rulemaking action.

Regulatory Findings

    We determined that this proposed AD would not have federalism 
implications under Executive Order 13132. This proposed AD would not 
have a substantial direct effect on the States, on the relationship 
between the national Government and the States, or on the distribution 
of power and responsibilities among the various levels of government.
    For the reasons discussed above, I certify this proposed 
regulation:
    (1) Is not a ``significant regulatory action'' under Executive 
Order 12866,
    (2) Is not a ``significant rule'' under the DOT Regulatory Policies 
and Procedures (44 FR 11034, February 26, 1979),
    (3) Will not affect intrastate aviation in Alaska, and
    (4) Will not have a significant economic impact, positive or 
negative, on a substantial number of small entities under the criteria 
of the Regulatory Flexibility Act.

List of Subjects in 14 CFR Part 39

    Air transportation, Aircraft, Aviation safety, Incorporation by 
reference, Safety.

The Proposed Amendment

    Accordingly, under the authority delegated to me by the 
Administrator, the FAA proposes to amend 14 CFR part 39 as follows:

PART 39--AIRWORTHINESS DIRECTIVES

    1. The authority citation for part 39 continues to read as follows:

    Authority: 49 U.S.C. 106(g), 40113, 44701.

Sec.  39.13  [Amended]

    2. The FAA amends Sec.  39.13 by adding the following new 
airworthiness directive (AD):

Cessna Aircraft Company: Docket No. FAA-2012-0880; Directorate 
Identifier 2012-CE-004-AD.

(a) Comments Due Date

    We must receive comments by January 22, 2013.

(b) Affected ADs

    None.

(c) Applicability

    This AD applies to Cessna Aircraft Company Model 525 airplanes, 
serial number (S/N) 525-0001 through 525-0558, and 525-0600 through 
525-0701, that:
    (1) Are equipped with part number (P/N) 1134104-1 or 1134104-5 
air conditioning (A/C) compressor motor; and

[[Page 72780]]

    (2) Are certificated in any category.

(d) Subject

    Joint Aircraft System Component (JASC)/Air Transport Association 
(ATA) of America Code 21, Air Conditioning.

(e) Unsafe Condition

    This AD was prompted by reports of smoke and/or fire in the 
tailcone caused by brushes wearing beyond their limits on the A/C 
motor. We are issuing this AD to require replacement of the brushes 
on certain P/N A/C compressor motors or deactivation of the A/C 
system until replacement of the brushes. This AD also requires 
reporting of aircraft information related to the replacement of the 
brushes.

(f) Compliance

    Comply with this AD within the compliance times specified, 
unless already done.

(g) Inspections

    Within the next 30 days after the effective date of this AD or 
within the next 10 hours time-in-service (TIS) after the effective 
date of this AD, whichever occurs first, do the following:
    (1) Inspect the number of hours on the A/C compressor hour 
meter; and
    (2) Check the aircraft logbook for any entry for replacing the 
A/C compressor motor brushes with new brushes or replacing the 
compressor motor or compressor condenser module assembly (pallet) 
with a motor or assembly that has new brushes.
    (i) If the logbook contains an entry for replacement of parts as 
specified in the paragraph above, determine the number of hours on 
the A/C compressor motor brushes by comparing the number of hours on 
the compressor motor since replacement and use this number in 
paragraph (h) of this AD; or
    (ii) If through the logbook check you cannot positively 
determine the number of hours on the A/C compressor motor brushes as 
specified in the paragraph above, you must use the number of hours 
on the A/C compressor hour meter to comply with the requirements of 
this AD and use this number in paragraph (h) of this AD or presume 
the brushes have over 500 hours TIS.

(h) Replacement

    At whichever of the below compliance times occurs later, using 
the hour reading on the A/C compressor hour meter determined in 
paragraph (g) of this AD, replace the A/C compressor motor brushes 
with new brushes. Thereafter, repeat the replacement of the A/C 
compressor motor brushes no later than every 500 hours TIS on the A/
C compressor motor. Do the replacement following Cessna Aircraft 
Company Model 525 Maintenance Manual, Revision 23, dated July 1, 
2012.
    (1) Before or when the A/C compressor motor brushes reach a 
total of 500 hours TIS; or
    (2) Before further flight after the inspection required in 
paragraph (g)(2)(ii) of this AD if the A/C compressor motor brush 
hours cannot be positively determined.

(i) Deactivation

    In lieu of replacing the A/C compressor motor brushes, before or 
when the A/C compressor motor brushes reach a total of 500 hours 
TIS, you may deactivate the A/C. Remove the fuse limiter that 
supplies power to the A/C compressor motor, fabricate and install a 
placard that states: ``A/C DISABLED.'' Install the placard by the A/
C selection switch prohibiting use of the vapor cycle air 
conditioner and document deactivation of the system in the aircraft 
logbook referring to this AD as the reason for deactivation. While 
the system is deactivated, aircraft operators must remain aware of 
operating temperature limitations as detailed in the specific 
airplane flight manual.
    (1) Do the following steps to remove the compressor fuse 
limiter.
    (i) Open aft baggage compartment.
    (ii) Remove aft baggage compartment dividers.
    (iii) Disconnect the main battery connector from the battery.
    (iv) Tag the battery and external power receptacle with a 
warning tag that reads: WARNING: Do not connect the battery 
connector or external power cart during the maintenance in progress.
    (v) Remove wing nuts that attach the cover to the aft power J-
Box.
    (vi) Remove the aft power J-Box cover.
    (vii) Remove nuts securing compressor fuse limiter (Reference 
Designator HZ028, P/N ANL100) to bus bar. Retain nuts.
    (viii) Remove the compressor motor fuse limiter from the 
terminals and retain for future reinstallation once compressor motor 
brushes have been replaced.
    (2) A properly certified mechanic must fabricate and install the 
placard as specified below:
    (i) Use \1/8\-inch black lettering on a white background; and
    (ii) Install the placard on the instrument panel in close 
proximity to the A/C selection switch.
    (3) Do the following steps to return the aircraft to service 
with the compressor motor fuse limiter removed.
    (i) Install fuse limiter nuts on the terminals and torque to 100 
inch-pounds +5 or -5 inch-pounds.
    (ii) Install the aft power J-Box cover with the wing nuts.
    (iii) Remove the warning tag on the battery and external power 
receptacle.
    (iv) Connect battery connector to battery.
    (v) Install aft baggage compartment dividers.

(j) Return of Replaced Parts and Reporting Requirement

    For the first two A/C compressor motor brush replacement cycles 
on each aircraft, within 30 days after the replacement or within 30 
days after the effective date of this AD, whichever occurs later, 
send the brushes that were removed to Cessna Aircraft Company, 
Cessna Service Parts and Programs, 7121 Southwest Boulevard, 
Wichita, KS 67215. Provide the following information with the 
brushes:
    (1) The Model and S/N of the airplane;
    (2) P/N of Motor;
    (3) P/N of the brushes, if known;
    (4) The elapsed amount of motor hours since the last brush/motor 
replacement, if known;
    (5) If motor hours are unknown, report the elapsed airplane 
flight hours since the last brush/motor replacement and indicate 
that motor hours are unknown; and
    (6) Number of motor hours currently displayed on the pallet hour 
meter.

(k) Special Flight Permit

    Special flight permits are permitted with the following 
limitation: Operation of the A/C system is prohibited.

(l) Paperwork Reduction Act Burden Statement

    A federal agency may not conduct or sponsor, and a person is not 
required to respond to, nor shall a person be subject to a penalty 
for failure to comply with a collection of information subject to 
the requirements of the Paperwork Reduction Act unless that 
collection of information displays a current valid OMB Control 
Number. The OMB Control Number for this information collection is 
2120-0056. Public reporting for this collection of information is 
estimated to be approximately 5 minutes per response, including the 
time for reviewing instructions, completing and reviewing the 
collection of information. All responses to this collection of 
information are mandatory. Comments concerning the accuracy of this 
burden and suggestions for reducing the burden should be directed to 
the FAA at: 800 Independence Ave. SW., Washington, DC 20591, Attn: 
Information Collection Clearance Officer, AES-200.

(m) Alternative Methods of Compliance (AMOCs)

    (1) The Manager, Wichita Aircraft Certification Office (ACO), 
FAA, has the authority to approve AMOCs for this AD, if requested 
using the procedures found in 14 CFR 39.19. In accordance with 14 
CFR 39.19, send your request to your principal inspector or local 
Flight Standards District Office, as appropriate. If sending 
information directly to the manager of the ACO, send it to the 
attention of the person identified in the Related Information 
section of this AD.
    (2) Before using any approved AMOC, notify your appropriate 
principal inspector, or lacking a principal inspector, the manager 
of the local flight standards district office/certificate holding 
district office.

(n) Related Information

    For more information about this AD, contact Christine Abraham, 
Aerospace Engineer, Wichita ACO, FAA, 1801 Airport Road, Room 100, 
Wichita, Kansas 67209; phone: (316) 946-4165; fax: (316) 946-4107; 
email: WICHITA-COS@FAA.GOV.

    Issued in Kansas City, Missouri, on November 29, 2012.
Earl Lawrence,
Manager, Small Airplane Directorate, Aircraft Certification Service.
[FR Doc. 2012-29398 Filed 12-5-12; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 4910-13-P
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